If you’ve visited Arthur Murray Royal Oak, you’ll see that we’re pretty much a no-fuss studio. Taking classes here doesn’t require a lot of prep in your day. Most students come after work or before school or on a day off between errands. Our flexible hours of operation are a big draw (and something we pride ourselves in, frankly). You don’t need to remember your yoga mat like you might for the gym or your reusable shopping bag for a trip to the grocery store. As student Julie Zenger Hain pointed out in our last blog, you really only need to grab your dancing shoes when heading over!
We do have one suggestion to students old and new though: eat like a dancer before class. Whether you’re stopping in for 45 minutes tops, or plan to dance for a few hours, keep in mind that what you consume before you enter the studio can make all the difference. In an ideal world, we would plan out all of our meals and snacks, keeping portion size, nutrition and variety of foods in mind. To view recommendations on how to do so using our five food groups (fruits, vegetable, grain, protein and dairy), visit ChooseMyPlate.gov.
As you go about your day, planning your next stop to our studio, keep the following tips in mind to ensure optimal learning and stamina:
SAY NO TO THE SLUGGISH
As preachy as it may sound, the saying “you are what you eat” rings true when it comes to dancing. Eating heavy foods like a cheeseburger or pizza will make you feel, well, HEAVY. Who wants that when you’re working on a smooth rumba or graceful waltz? Avoid anything that can slow you down or become an inconvenience. Gassy foods that cause bloating or overly spicy foods that cause indigestion will have to take a back seat before hitting the dance floor. The last thing you want is to be distracted with uneasiness in your belly or the urgency to go to the bathroom during your session.
Naturally, you’ll want to avoid foods that your body might not agree with in general. This is especially important to remember if you have a jam-packed day and find yourself squeezing in a dance lesson. Use your common sense and listen to your body when choosing a snack. Your body will thank you for doing so!
LIGHT IS RIGHT
On the contrary, easily digestible and light snacks such as bananas, apple slices or dried fruit will give you sustenance for your session, while allowing you to be lighter on your feet. Your romantic sway will come more easily if you reach for more natural foods. Consume your snack or meal about an hour before class, so you arrive ready for your partner or solo dancing.
If you’ve ever found yourself in awe of the professional dancers on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” you may be interested in their eating lifestyle. Check out this article for more meal and snack ideas. The cast members fill up on lean proteins such as chicken, healthy fats like avocados and plenty of fruit!
H20 IS THE WAY TO GO
Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! We can’t express this enough, as dehydration can lead to many symptoms such as confusion, dizziness and fatigue. Be mindful of what you drink before strapping on your dance shoes though. Caffeinated drinks might perk you up, but they also raise your heartbeat. “Power” drinks might replenish electrolytes, but they also contain high amounts of sugar, as do sodas. If you have a few minutes, you can make your own natural, refreshing, electrolyte-replacing beverage.
Above all, your best bet for hydration is good ole water, the essential source for our bodies! Mayo Clinic offers the following advice:
- Drink a glass of water or other calorie-free or low-calorie beverage with each meal and between each meal.
- Drink water before, during and after exercise.
- Drink water if you’re feeling hungry. Thirst is often confused with hunger.
Following these tips will help with your energy level and make for an effective, fun and memorable experience at Arthur Murray Royal Oak. Are you ready to book your next session or give us a try for the very first time? You can’t go wrong with a free trial! Call us at (248) 548-4770 or click here so we can see you in the studio.